One-year or so... ago.

I can’t believe it. It’s been a year since I started writing and recording on substack. Initially, I intended to publish my thoughts on politics and wanted the words to sing on the page. I wanted to explore my thinking on conservatism, democracy, liberty, justice, etc. Then I thought about expanding to analyzing technology and financial markets. Then substack added audio recording capabilities, and I wanted to monologue (A rant) and set up a podcast. I tried to analyze art and poetry in the political context and maybe write about the art exhibits that have blown my mind.

And apparently, I did all of that, although without much focus.

Still, you are here with me, and I am forever grateful.

I started publishing content not just to expand my brand online but because of the remarkable conversations, debates, and one hour plus monologues I had success hosting on clubhouse.

Before clubhouse, I still ranted; in the coffee shop, at the book store, walking through the museum, eating at a restaurant, in the middle of a meeting, at a conference, or in the most inappropriate contexts in my professional life. But I never put together any central body of work. I had a lot of energy and a lot to say.

And the internet has provided me with a broader platform to do so. To test my rhetorical skills in speaking, writing, tolerating imperfection, and developing the capacity to be vulnerable in front of an audience - you know, think in public.

I have struggled to put structure around this publication, and I feel it’s still very experimental. Yet, I have fallen in love with the expressive freedom that is now available to me.

And here we are, a year later.

My audience has grown by 4x on substack alone, not including other platforms.

I am thankful.

I plan to focus soon, but in the meantime, I want to explore a few more topics and enjoy conversations with a few more speakers.

At times, I would like to publish for the pure pleasure and joy it brings me, not necessarily as a structured work product.

If you’ve been with me on this journey for a while or are new, feel free to reply to this message or leave a comment about your favorite moment(s), topics, memories, or how you found my publication.

Over time, I plan to increase the quality and consistency of A rant, Christopher Sweat, and I am sure it will happen.

I want to welcome anyone who hasn’t yet figured out what is happening here. I, too, have been confused about what I am putting together. Much of my writing is one take with limited editing - streams of consciousness or continuations of other conversations I’ve participated in.

Some of my writing and recordings have been inspired by my time studying political science at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

And the rest of it? Oh, that’s just my idiosyncratic ways on full display.

Anyways… this is what I’ve got for now after one year.